The White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies Recipe is the ultimate festive treat to brighten your holiday dessert table. Combining creamy white chocolate chips with the refreshing crunch of peppermint candy canes, these cookies deliver a melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that captures the joy of Christmas in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cookie exchange, or cozy winter nights, this recipe brings the aroma of holiday cheer right to your kitchen.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!With their crisp edges, soft centers, and a beautiful swirl of crushed candy canes, White Chocolate Candy Cane Christmas Cookies look just as magical as they taste. Let’s explore why this recipe has become a winter favorite for dessert lovers everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies Recipe
Festive flavor fusion: The irresistible mix of peppermint and creamy white chocolate gives every bite a joyful, holiday-inspired taste.
Soft and chewy texture: Perfectly balanced — slightly crisp on the outside and soft in the middle.
No chill time: You can bake these Candy Cane White Chocolate Cookies right away.
Kid-friendly baking: A fun activity for kids to crush candy canes and decorate.
Gorgeous holiday look: The red-and-white peppermint speckles add a natural Christmas charm.
Easy and reliable: Simple ingredients, foolproof steps, and consistent results every time.
Perfect for gifting: Wrap them in festive boxes or jars — they make a thoughtful homemade gift.
Make-ahead friendly: Dough can be frozen and baked fresh anytime.
Ingredients for the Best White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies
Dry Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – gives the cookies structure and chewiness.
½ tsp baking soda – ensures slight rise without puffing too much.
¼ tsp salt – enhances sweetness and balances flavor.
Wet Ingredients
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – for richness and buttery flavor.
1 cup granulated sugar – adds crisp texture.
½ cup brown sugar, packed – adds moisture and caramel undertones.
2 large eggs – for binding and softness.
1 tsp vanilla extract – deepens the flavor.
Add-ins
1 cup white chocolate chips – creamy, sweet bursts that melt beautifully.
½ cup crushed candy canes – for peppermint crunch and festive flair.
Substitution Tips:
Replace white chocolate chips with chopped white chocolate bars for a richer flavor.
Use peppermint extract (¼ tsp) for a stronger minty touch.
Swap butter with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
How to Make White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed, giving you uniform cookies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process traps air, resulting in tender and chewy cookies.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. This gives your cookie dough a silky texture and balanced flavor base.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined — overmixing can make cookies tough.
Step 6: Fold in White Chocolate and Candy Canes
Gently fold in white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes. Distribute evenly for a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch in every bite.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cool slightly on the tray, then transfer to a wire rack.
Pro Tips for Perfect Candy Cane White Chocolate Cookies
How do I keep cookies soft after baking?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread — the moisture keeps them chewy for days.
Can I freeze cookie dough?
Absolutely! Roll the dough into balls and freeze. Bake straight from the freezer, adding 1–2 extra minutes.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
This can happen if butter is too soft. Chill dough for 15 minutes before baking to control spread.
Can I use peppermint bark instead of candy canes?
Yes — roughly chop peppermint bark and fold it in as a substitute for both white chocolate and candy canes.
Best Ways to Serve White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies
Serve these White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies warm with hot cocoa or peppermint mocha.
They also make a stunning addition to your Christmas cookie platter alongside Gingerbread Cookies, Snowball Cookies, and Chocolate Crinkle Cookies (link internally to similar recipes).
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Cookie)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Sugar | 17g |
| Sodium | 85mg |
Storage and Leftovers
Room Temperature: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 7–8 days when sealed.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months or dough balls for 3 months.
Reheat Tip: Warm in the microwave for 10 seconds to restore that soft, fresh-baked texture.
Recipe Variations
Peppermint Bark Twist: Add crushed peppermint bark chunks instead of chips for extra texture.
Chocolate Drizzle Version: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over cooled cookies.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil or vegan butter and dairy-free white chocolate.
Candy Cane Cookie Bars: Press dough into a baking pan and cut into squares after baking.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead for Christmas?
Yes! Freeze baked cookies or dough in advance and thaw before serving.
Q2: What type of white chocolate works best?
Use high-quality white chocolate chips or chopped bars made with cocoa butter for the creamiest taste.
Q3: Are these cookies suitable for gifting?
Definitely — pack in tins or glass jars with festive ribbons. They stay fresh and look beautiful for gifting.
Conclusion
The White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies Recipe combines festive peppermint crunch with creamy white chocolate sweetness — a cookie that embodies the warmth, joy, and sparkle of the holidays. Perfect for gifting, parties, or cozy winter nights, this recipe will become your go-to holiday tradition.